Practice and quality of living environment of high dengue incidence and low dengue incidence communities: a comparative study

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Research Paper 01/08/2018
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Practice and quality of living environment of high dengue incidence and low dengue incidence communities: a comparative study

Maria Teresa M. Fajardo
J. Biodiv. & Environ. Sci. 13(2), 163-172, August 2018.
Copyright Statement: Copyright 2018; The Author(s).
License: CC BY-NC 4.0

Abstract

Problems with dengue are often associated with dengue preventive practices and quality of living environment as a consequence of improper solid waste disposal and inconsistent water supply. The study aims to compare 10 communities that were categorized as high dengue incidence and low dengue incidence as reflected in the 2015 Department of Health report. The communities were compared on the quality of living environment and practices of the residents related to dengue prevention. Descriptive research design was used with interview and focus group discussion as techniques in validating field observations. An adapted and validated survey questionnaire on dengue preventive practices was also employed. The on-site observations and interviews were conducted among 50 respondents who have experienced dengue and 50 randomly selected respondents who have not experienced dengue. Results indicated that high dengue incidence communities have problems with water supply and proper solid waste disposal. On the other hand, low dengue incidence communities have better discipline in handling their solid waste. A more aggressive campaign against dengue vectors may be necessary. Collaboration between the academe, Department of Health and local government units may be pursued to ensure timeliness and relevance of dengue prevention efforts. This includes among others, tailoring the education campaign to the needs of the different stakeholders.

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